Welcome to Stephen Donaldson, new Chief Commissioner for Northern Ireland

As of 1 September this year, we’re delighted to announce that Stephen Donaldson has been appointed as Chief Commissioner for Northern Ireland!

Stephen is a loyal member of Scouting, a dairy farmer and is married to Alison, who is a Cub Scout Leader. They have three sons, two of which are also currently involved in the Movement, so it’s pretty clear that Scouting runs in the family.

Highly respected in Northern Ireland, Stephen has been extremely active in promoting National and International events and encouraging Scouts to attend major events such as Jamborees.

Stephen has always taken an active interest in the grass roots Scouting that takes place around him and attended as many meetings and events as possible. As County Commissioner in 2013 he united Newry District and Banbridge District to form South Down District, and in 2014 paired up Newtownards District and South East Down District to form Strangford District.

His position of leadership began back in July 1977 when he became Assistant Scout Leader with 2nd Donaghadee. Seven years later, in 1984, he became Scout Leader and in January of 1990 he took on the role of Group Scout Leader. He was appointed County Commissioner for County Down in 2005 and held the role until 2015. With just a few weeks to go, we’re looking forward to welcoming Stephen in his next role as Chief Commissioner for Northern Ireland.

Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner, said: 'I'm delighted to welcome Stephen as Chief Commissioner of Northern Ireland and know that he will continue to build on the significant success that Scouting in Northern Ireland is enjoying and would like to congratulate Colin Lammey for his fantastic leadership over the past 6 years.'